I like that the LA Film Critics includes runner-ups. It's like a built-in discussion. Hell, I'd be cool with top 3. The Oscars is a zero-sum game in comparison.

Anyway, this is that body's choices for 2019, along with a few thoughts from me:

• Best Picture: Parasite
• Runner-up: The Irishman

I‘ve seen both; I’m hoping there's better. I already think there's better, but I get the appeal of these. 

• Director: Bong Joon Ho (Parasite)
• Runner-up: Martin Scorsese (The Irishman)

Same same. Neither is a bad pick.

• Actor: Antonio Banderas (Pain and Glory)
• Runner-up: Adam Driver (Marriage Story)

Haven't seen “Pain and Glory” but Adam Driver is among my front-runners, along with Joaquin Phoenix and Leo DiCaprio—neither of whom seem to be getting much critic love at this point in the season.

• Actress: Mary Kay Place (Diane)
• Runner-up: Lupita Nyong'o (Us)

Apparently MKP is great in “Diane,” a way under-the-radar movie I‘ll have to check out. Lupita is my frontrunner. 

• Supporting Actor: Song Kang Ho (Parasite)
• Runner-up: Joe Pesci (The Irishman)

The Toronto critics went with Brad Pitt in “Once Upon a Time...” That’s my choice. 

• Supporting Actress: Jennifer Lopez (Hustlers)
• Runner-up: Zhao Shuzhen (The Farewell)

Need to see “Hustlers.” So far, Zhao, the grandmother in “The Farewell, is my choice. 

• Screenplay: Noah Baumbach (Marriage Story)
• Runner-up: Bong Joon Ho and Han Jin Won (Parasite)

Sure.

• Documentary: American Factory
• Runner-up: Apollo 11

I need to see ”Apollo 11" soon. Shame I didn't on the big screen. 

More here.